Free Things To Do in North Myrtle Beach

While vacationing can get expensive after adding up airline tickets, money for gas, lodging, dining, shopping, and entertainment, there are always many options of free attractions to visit in the North Myrtle Beach area. By stepping outside of the normal routine of being on the water or in the sun during the day and going shopping and to dinner at night, you are able to unlock some pretty unique experiences throughout the town. South Carolina is rich in history and with over 60 miles of beach in the Grand Strand there are plenty of free adventures to go on. Here are some of our favorite free things to do in North Myrtle Beach.

The Beaches

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When exploring the east coast it is important to know which beaches are free to visit and what regulations they may have. Fortunately, North Myrtle Beach is free no matter where you are. Though you may have to pay for parking in some areas. However, depending where you are staying, you may be able to walk to the beach. Beaches offer all day fun from building sand castles, body surfing, or just soaking up the sunshine. Find a couple of perfect seashells and it is a day well spent and for free!

VEREEN MEMORIAL HISTORICAL GARDENS

Photo Credit: Vereen Memorial Gardens via Facebook

Vereen Memorial Garden is a breathtaking 115-acre park that is designated to the wildlife refuge. The park is located just north of North Myrtle Beach on Highway 17 into the Little River community. It is free to enter and offers many trails and boardwalks that extend into the saltwater marshes and passes by the Civil War cemetery. Relax and bird watch or take a break from hiking at the gazebo overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway.

Barefoot Landing

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Barefoot Landing offers a wide variety of free things to do within one general area. From free concerts and entertainment to feeding the fish and checking out the unique shops, you will love your time there. While you can enjoy the ambiance for free there are a few larger attractions within Barefoot that might be worth spending a couple of dollars on. Barefoot Landing is the home of the t.i.g.e.r.s. preservation station, as well as Alligator Adventure. They also have a fireworks show every Monday night.

North Myrtle Beach Sports Complex

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This entertainment complex is filled with exciting things to do, that are all free. Enjoy live music at the amphitheater or a nice picnic by the pond. They have a baseball and softball field as well as soccer, lacrosse, and football fields too. Stroll down the nature trail or take your furry friend to the dog park. With so many free options, you can play all day and still not want to leave.

HERITAGE SHORES NATURE PRESERVE

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Known to be one of the most unique places in the city, Heritage Shores Nature Preserve was created in 2007 and features over 7 different walking and hiking paths. There is free admission and pets are welcome. This is the perfect trail for hot summer nights when you want to look out over the salt marshes and just take in the beauty of the scenic city.

RUSSELL BURGESS COASTAL PRESERVE

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Located along the creek near northern 36th avenue, this area is the perfect way to explore the city and see all of the natural habitats on the way. The boardwalk was added in 2009 to help maintain the habitual areas of the preserve. On the boardwalk, you can see the salt marsh as well as the oceanfront buildings, and native flora. The preserve is great during sunrise and sunset, as it creates the most beautiful purple, pink skies right over the water.

Franklin g. Burroughs-Simeon b. Chapin art museum

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Located a little further south, The Franklin g. Burroughs- Simeon b. Chapin art museum is known for its holdings of Waccamaw Arts and Crafts Guide works and a collection of antique maps and prints. It is currently located in the former Springmaid Villa, a 10,000 square foot 1927 mansion that originally stood at 5429 North Ocean Boulevard. It was labeled for demolition, but an enthusiastic art lover came in and moved it to its new location 8 miles south.

Horry County Museum

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Take a dive into the culture of the area at the Horry County Museum in Conway. Learn about the humble beginnings of the logging and railroad town before it became a tourist destination. Learn about how the locals lived and worked, while also learning about the natural history and wide range of wildlife including, bears, alligators, and many other creatures.

Broadway at the Beach

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Located in Myrtle Beach, this outside shopping complex offers many things from unique shops, amusement parks like the Pavilion, to Ripley’s Aquarium. The area is free to walk around and there are plenty of free things to do with the whole family. Enjoy feeding the fish, live entertainment, crazy boat rides, and much more. Broadway at the Beach also hosts special free events all year that attract millions to this popular venue.

Myrtle Beach Boardwalk

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The Myrtle Beach boardwalk is the perfect place to see everything the Grand Strand has to offer in one place all while having a lovely view of the Atlantic Ocean. You can enjoy the nightlife at Plyler Park and any entertainment they may have, as well as see the Skywheel all lit up at night. You can walk down the boardwalk and look for souvenirs or have a nice, relaxing night full of family fun. You will stumble across many Myrtle Beach attractions, like water parks, or the Family Kingdom while walking the boardwalk and may even see some marine life.

Vacation can sometimes quickly add up, there are plenty of things to do for free while you are here. If you have a day that you would like to fill somewhere other than the beach, think about taking a day trip to Pawleys Island or Garden city. There you can find the beautiful Brookgreen Gardens and even the Myrtle Beach State Park.

Escape Rooms Around North Myrtle Beach

While the craze of escape rooms continues to rise, South Carolina’s Grand Strand has been affected in a huge way. North Myrtle Beach and Myrtle Beach account for more escape rooms than any other city in South Carolina. The thrilling, team building activities are known for their live and interactive entertainment where their participants may be locked up or held captive until completing the challenges. The experiences can range from fantasy like the walking dead, or real-life like a bank heist. Escapees will often get a prize if they are able to make the jailbreak. The immersive atmosphere will have everyone in your group fascinated and ready for more escape games. So if you are ready for a room escape, here are a few of our favorites in the North Myrtle/ Myrtle Beach Area.

Break Out Myrtle Beach

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The 6 themed escape games located in North Myrtle Beach on Main Street, is for all ages. The rooms range from CSI type mysteries to treasure hunts. The Break Out Myrtle Beach was created by a group of young game enthusiasts, taking escape rooms to the next levels. The different rooms will have you engulfed in the game waiting for more. The escape rooms at Break Out Myrtle Beach are Red Beard’s Revenge, Serial Killer, CSI Myrtle Beach, Bank Heist, Undead Outbreak, and The Curse of Volcano Island.

Location: 314 Main Street, North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582

Phone: (843) 231-5644

Myrtle Beach Room Escape

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Located near the famous Ripley’s Believe It Or Not, on the boardwalk, Myrtle Beach Room Escape sees thousands of visitors every year. This one hour experience will feel like a “real-life adventure game”. Bring your family, friends, or small business for a thrill. No reason to search for haunted places in Myrtle Beach, this escape room has zombies straight out of the walking dead and Harry Potter-like castle scenarios. If you aren’t interested in show-themed rooms, try out the jailbreaks escapes. The thought-provoking games will be one of the highlights of your trips. Their escape rooms consist of The Witch’s Castle, Bomb in the Theater, Walking Dead-Road to Survive, and Jailbreak.

Location: 316 9th Avenue N., Myrtle Beach, SC 29577

Phone: (843) 990-1677

Backstage Escape Games

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If you are looking to experience an alternate reality, Backstage Escape Games is a perfect place for you. This super fun escape adventure offers a fast-paced escape or a tour through a haunted house. With the use of great props and state of the art sound and lighting effects, Backstage Escape Games is coined as the most immersive escape room in Myrtle Beach. It is located inside Broadway at the Beach where you can shop, eat and enjoy the atmosphere before or after you enter the escape room. Backstage Escape games offer other attractions as well like the Backstage Mirror Maze. The escape rooms at Backstage are The Legend of Atlantis, Dark Winter’s Night, and The Haunting of Hyde House.

Location: 1314 Celebrity Circle #165, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577

Phone: (843) 713-1237

Riddles Escape Room Myrtle Beach

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This one hour quest will have your senses in overload. There are seven different themes for the escape games. The games include a mixture of puzzles, secrete codes, and hidden objects. If you’re lucky enough, or unlucky enough, you will get to experience their live actors who will come in to keep you on your toes. Riddles also has a unique VR escape room, as well as one of the smallest escape rooms in the USA. Feel the fear of Claustrophobia setting in as you try to escape in record time. The rooms at the Riddle Escape Room are Myrtletown Wagon Trail, Grande Strand Hotel, House of CARS Steampunk Mansion, VR- Space Station, Claustrophobia Extreme, Marooned Island, and Scuba Underwater Laboratory is coming soon.

Location: 9713 N. Kings Highway, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577

Where: (843) 213-1586

Escapology Myrtle Beach

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Escapology in Myrtle beach has honed in on a real-life escape room experience. There are four different themed rooms that are 60 minutes in total. They have many different styles like a spy thriller or western shootouts, this place offers a unique range of never seen before rooms. The puzzles and riddles will keep the whole crowd perplexed and on the edge of their seats. Escapology also offers a seasonal room named “Thrilling Holiday Adventure” where the families are tasked with Saving Santa and Christmas. This Myrtle Beach Escape room offers Antidote, Th3 COD3, Arizona Shootout, and Saving Santa.

Location: 400 N. Kings Highway D, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577

Phone: (843) 945-2830

Captive Escape Rooms In Myrtle Beach

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Captive Escape Rooms has locations all over the United States. This interactive experience offers fie different escape rooms that range from zombies, vampires, haunted mansions, and murder mysteries. The one hour thrill will have everyone in your group involved and dedicated to finding your way out. You can act as a surgeon or find out what really happened in an old sinister house. These escape rooms will ensure that you have the most fun you can imagine. Captive Escape Rooms are Dracula’s Library, Charlotte, Cabinet of Curiosities, The Surgeon, and 13 Doors.

Location:1120 N. Kings Highway, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577

Phone:(843) 444-8224

If the beach starts to get too hot, and you are looking for a thrilling time, try out one of the many escape rooms North Myrtle Beach and Myrtle Beach offers. You can race against time or figure out who was the Myrtle Murderer, no matter what you choose you will have fun. Most escape rooms require anyone under the age of 17 to be accompanied by an adult. We hope to see you soon, and good luck escaping.

The Best Time To Visit North Myrtle Beach

North Myrtle Beach offers some of the best restaurants and beautiful beaches on the East Coast. The Grand Strand is the perfect city to come and visit at any time of the year. If you’re looking for a nice summer vacation where you can enjoy the weather while splashing around in the Atlantic Ocean or a cozy getaway from the winter cold, North Myrtle Beach is the perfect place for that. Though the most popular times to visit the area is summer, here is a broken down idea of what it is like to visit during every season as well as month.

Summer

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The summer months are typically North Myrtle Beach’s peak season. This time is filled with sunny days, watersports, music festivals, and a ton of fun. The average temperature is in the upper 80’s to the lower 90’s. Rain showers may pop up on really hot days to cool off the area, but there are plenty of indoor activities such as Ripley’s Aquarium and Wonderworks at Broadway at the Beach. Because of the nice weather, you may experience longer wait times than usual at restaurants.

June

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Summer is officially here and the warm weather will be sticking around for a while. With school letting out it becomes the perfect time for a beach vacation. If you are interested in experiencing everything the area has to offer, like the top attractions, June is a great option. The waterparks will have already opened as well as amusement parks and many other local attractions. The average temperature is around 88° and the average water temperature is around 78°. It is important to book in advance because many places will have a 100% occupancy rate. The main events that take place in June are the annual Carolina Country Music Festival, which lasts 4 days, the Conway River Fest, the Italian Festival, and the free concert series at the Boathouse.

July

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If your favorite holiday is the Fourth of July, you may want to consider visiting North Myrtle Beach during this time. Though you will have to make your way through quite the crowd, it will be well worth it. There are many different places to celebrate, including Barefoot Landing, you can enjoy fireworks, live music, great food, and unique shopping all in one place. July is also known for the Father-Son Team Golf Classic, as well as Mustang Week, and the Summer Concert Series. The temperature is usually about 91° and the water temperature is around 83° Much like June, it is important to book in advance because many places will have a 100% occupancy rate.

August

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Since North Myrtle Beach has several months of warm weather, August is still a great time to visit. The attractions are still open and the high temperature is around 89°. At this point, many of the kids are starting to go back to school so the crowds begin to dwindle down. The hotels are starting to be a little less packed and it is not as rainy as June or July. The summer concert series is still going, and Music On Main Street is still lively. You can also spend a cool summer night at Brookgreen Gardens to see all of the beautiful flowers, trails, and wildlife. Enjoy shopping during Tax-Free weekend or the Beach Boogie BBQ Festival. August will not disappoint you!

Fall

Fortunately in North Myrtle Beach warm weather is extended much longer than just a few weeks. In fact, the beaches cool down and are less packed, but the temperature is still warm enough for beach walks and soaking up the sun. The average temperature is anywhere from the mid-’70s to the upper 60’s. You can typically start to see and feel the nice crisp fall air closer to the end of October and November. As the start of the holiday season comes around, the Grand Strand is filled with laughter and cheer. The Fall is something you truly have to have the North Myrtle Beach experience.

September

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Some may say September has the best weather in North Myrtle beach. There will be one last rush of crowds during Labor day weekend, so most of the summer attractions remain open until then. The family vacationers have usually headed back home and the beaches become a nice serene, relaxing place. All restaurants and indoor attractions will remain open, however, the waterparks and some amusement parks will close by the end of the month. The average room rate has dropped significantly by September but the temperature outside remains nice and toasty at 84°. The water is still warm enough to splash around in as it is still 77°. The Irish Italian Festival and the St. John’s Greek Festival both take place this month.

October

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Much like September, October is a great month to visit the North Myrtle Beach area. It is the start of the off-season and it’s the time of year where many families return home. While the sizzling sun may not be quite as warm as in July, it is still warm enough to enjoy a day at the beach. The temperature is usually around 77° and the water temperature is around 72°. October is known for its Fall Bike Week which brings down thousands of bikers. You can also experience your first Oktoberfest, taste of the town, or run in the Mini Marathon.

November

As the weather begins to get cooler and beach days are fading out, it is now the award-winning golf courses time to shine. The North Myrtle Beach area brings in thousands of golfers each year. The average temperature is 69° and the water temperature is around 60°. If you love the holidays this is the place for you, every attraction will roll out its Christmas shows in November. You can also catch the South Carolina State Bluegrass Festival.

Winter

The winter months are great months to come to the beach to escape the cold. While there may not be many beach days, there are rarely, if any, snow days. The humidity drops and there are virtually no crowds. While some businesses on the boardwalk will close down for the season, many remain open all year. You can stay in an oceanfront vacation rental for as much as half of the price for the summer.

December

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Though the beach days may be over in December, the snow days are nonexistent. While the temperature has dropped to 55° you can still walk the beach and relax. Christmas is in full swing and many restaurants, hotels, and other attractions will have decorated and even the shows will have changed things up for the season. This is also when you will start to see some of the lowest rates for rooms all year. Throughout the month you can visit many events like Night of a Thousand Candles, Beach Ball Classic, and even Christmas parades.

January

As the new year makes an appearance and beach chairs feel like a thing of the past, North Myrtle Beach weather is still warmer than most places on the coast. With the average temperature being around 53° it makes being outside still bearable. This is when snowbirds begin to come down. To stay a week during the summer, you could stay the entire month for a similar price in the winter. Many who know about this option, choose to come down and stay for the entire winter, making North Myrtle Beach their home for a while. With the SOS mid-winter Break taking place on Maine Street, the town takes you right back in time.

February

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February is actually quite a popular time in North Myrtle Beach. Runners come from all over the world to visit Myrtle Beach and run in the Myrtle Beach Marathon, one that qualifies you for much larger races. The weather is about 60°, making it a runner’s dream as they run a flat race. With spring right around the corner, the room rates begin to rise as the start of fun activities starts to increase. You can take a day trip to Murrells Inlet and Pawleys Island to be part of the Shuckin’ The Strand Oyster Roast, for some delicious food from many vendors.

Spring

In the blink of an eye, the busy season is already returning to North Myrtle Beach. With schools letting out for spring break and colleges releasing for the summer, spring is a popular time to come visit before the real crowd starts to pile in. Typically the temperatures are already starting to reach the mid-70s and even sometimes 80s. While the water may not be warm enough for many, it is the best time to visit the beach seeing as it is less crowded.

March

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Here on the Grand Strand, we like to start spring a little earlier than others. Since the temperature is already in the high 60° to mid 70°, this is the perfect time to squeeze in an early vacation. Many local businesses begin to open for the season and welcome the fresh, spring air. You can find many golfers here throughout the month as they attempt to beat the heat of the scorching summer and play their favorite game on the many courses we have in the area. The National Shag Dance Championships take place as well as the North Myrtle Beach St. Patrick’s Day Parade.

April

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April is all about golf in North Myrtle Beach. The Monday After The Master’s party takes place every year at the House Of Blues. You can find many celebrities at the closed event held there, with live entertainment and music. IT may be hard to book tee times during this period as there are many in town to celebrate golf. If you are uninterested in golfing, April is a great time to visit the beach, since the average temperature has already risen to 76°.

May

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Memorial day is the real marker for the busy season that is about to take place. With the start of Bike Week and many families kicking off their summer with a vacation, summer is in full swing by May. May has the Harley Davidson Bike week as well as Atlantic Beach Bikefest just a few days apart. North Myrtle Beach’s Blue Crab Festival will take place offering locals and visitors a better look at the culture. The temperature has now hit the 80’s and we hope you are ready for a fun season and visit.

North Myrtle Beach Rental Chairs & Umbrella Information

There is nothing quite like a relaxing, luxurious beach vacation in South Carolina. Whether you want to enjoy invigorating water sports and other lively activities, or you would rather just lay back and leisurely absorb the sight of the sea, the sunshine, and the sounds of the waves, all while sipping away at a cool, refreshing drink – you want to make sure that you are able to do so in maximum comfort, while you are also being protected from the heat.

 

 

 

Bringing your own beach chairs and umbrellas -especially if arriving with children- is unnecessarily complicated; North Myrtle beach chairs are readily available for short- and long-term rentals through North Myrtle Beach Services. From late April to mid-October, you can rent beach chairs and umbrellas from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm each day.

Image credit: NMB Parks Department

Beach Services can also help you to set up your reserved chairs ahead, taking all chores off your shoulders, so you can relax and enjoy your well-deserved vacation without having to worry about any technical details, delays, or frustration. For your complete ease of mind, Beach Services are offering cold drinks and refreshments as well -at an additional cost -along the beach, making your North Myrtle Beach vacation even more hassle-free and convenient.

 

How To Rent Beach Chairs and Umbrellas

Renting your beach chairs and umbrellas is extremely easy! You have two simple options to choose from:

Call Beach Services at (843) 280-5684, or
Visit the website of the City of North Myrtle Beach Parks and Recreation Department to secure your rental at http://nmb.us/apps/beachservices/home.aspx

Whichever option you may select, you will be presented with the available Daily, Weekly, and Season passes, along with special, Combo Packages offered.

North Myrtle Beach List of Chair and Umbrella Rentals

You have many convenient rental options to choose from:

Daily Rental Prices:

Full Day Chair: $15
Full Day Umbrellas: $25
Daily Combo, including 2 chairs and 1 umbrella: $35

Weekly Rental Prices:

Weekly Chair rental: $65
Weekly Umbrella rental: $100
Weekly Combo, including 2 chairs and 1 umbrella: $160

 

All prices are valid as of June, 2020.

As you see, renting North Myrtle Beach chairs needn’t be a complicated process. Begin to plan your South Carolina getaway now, and rest assured, you will have a relaxing, comfortable, and worry-free stay in North Myrtle Beach!

Weddings in North Myrtle Beach: Popular Venues To Tie The Knot

North Myrtle Beach is a popular wedding destination each year. We welcome guests all year long who are visiting the area to “tie the knot” near the beach.

Along with the beautiful and spacious beaches, our city has a variety of award-winning shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. This is why North Myrtle Beach has become such a popular location for destination weddings. Both young and old couples looking to tie the knot will have several North Myrtle Beach wedding chapels to choose from when planning their special day. Here are a few of our favorite wedding venues from Pawleys Island to Little River.

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Fishing In North Myrtle Beach: A Guide To All Types Of Fishing

With over 15 miles of beach, North Myrtle Beach offers unspoiled beaches, beautiful scenery, great nightlife, and some of the best fishing you could ask for. If you’re looking to explore the outdoors, while getting away from all of the hustle and bustle, spending a day deep sea fishing, shore fishing, or pier fishing may be the perfect escape. 

If you’re visiting North Myrtle Beach for the first time, and are interested in trying out your hand at fishing, lucky for you, there’s plenty of fishing options available. 

Whether you’re an avid angler or a first-time fisherman, here’s everything you need to know about fishing in North Myrtle Beach.

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Yesterday’s catch!

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Where To Fish In North Myrtle Beach

There are several great fishing options in North Myrtle Beach for any time frame or budget. North Myrtle Beach boasts three popular piers where you can enjoy the best in an inshore, offshore, artificial reef, deep sea, and surf fishing. Fish are abundant in South Carolina. Even young, first-time fishers will enjoy the thrill of the catch.

If you are looking for a more leisurely fishing experience you can grab a reel and head to a local pier. If you’d prefer to cast a rod with your toes in the sand, try surf fishing anywhere along the coast. 

For a more adventurous fishing experience, book an island fishing charter. Charters are typically sold in half or full-day increments, and locations vary from different spots inshore or long trips offshore. More relaxed ‘fun’ charters are also available and are a great option for novices or families.

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Hiking Trails in North Myrtle Beach To Take A Beach Break

When vacationing in a spot like North Myrtle Beach, some people might be content to spend all of their time laying out on the beach, cruising through the water, or taking a stroll down the boardwalk. Others might like a little bit more of a sense of adventure.

If that is the case, then take a look at these North Myrtle Beach hiking trails and other areas.

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North Myrtle Beach Biking Trails

The beach is naturally the first thing visitors think of when they think of an ‘outdoor adventure’ in North Myrtle Beach, but we can attest that there’s so much more to see and do along our little stretch of paradise.

Outdoor enthusiasts are sure to love the wide-open spaces that provide great spots for picnics, outdoor games like cornhole or ladder ball, and hiking and biking.

Biking, in particular, is a popular beach past time, and it’s easy to spot nostalgia-inducing local bike rental shops along the beach boardwalks and Ocean Boulevard.

If you’re looking for a few great spots to hit the trails during your beach getaway, we’ve got you covered. North Myrtle Beach is home to three unique bike trails, with several others located immediately south in the city of Myrtle Beach.

Whether you are looking to rent a few bikes while you’re in town or if you plan to pack your own, check out these fantastic North Myrtle Beach biking trails!

North Myrtle Beach Sports Complex

Address: 150 Citizens Cir, Little River, SC 29566

Phone: (843) 281-3800

Website: https://nmbpark.com/

The North Myrtle Beach Sports Complex is your one-stop-shop for outdoor family fun and entertainment. The expansive facility features a 25-acre lake, 10-acre meadow perfect for sports and games, six baseball fields, eight batting tunnels, an ADA-accessible playground, a public amphitheater, two dog parks, covered picnic areas, and acres of walking and biking trails.

From a trail perspective, there are 3.5 miles of both paved and natural trails to explore, including a scenic loop around the lake. The trails are considered easy and are very family-friendly!

Vereen Memorial Historical Gardens

Address: 2250 SC-179, Little River, SC 29566

Phone: (843) 249-4157

Website: https://www.horrycounty.org/Departments/ParksAndRecreation/Recreation

Located just south of the North Carolina state line, Vereen Memorial Historic Gardens is a scenic retreat for a secluded bike ride. The tract features 114 acres of woodlands and saltwater marshes that create an outdoor oasis with plenty of other amenities, including a full park, public picnic areas, dog-friendly walking trails, a waterfront boardwalk for fishing and exploration, and much more.

For bikers, the park offers 3 miles of natural/unpaved trails. The trails are considered ‘easy’, but beware of potential seasonal erosion. And yes, the trails do take you right to the Intracoastal Waterway!

East Coast Greenway

Website: https://www.greenway.org/states/south-carolina

The East Coast Greenway represents the nation’s longest continuous hiking and biking trail system. The greenway connects communities all the way from Maine to Florida, with plenty of scenic stops along the way!

Though you likely won’t travel the full length, the Greenway offers more than 250 miles along coastal South Carolina passing through North Myrtle Beach and winding all the way south through Charleston and Beaufort. And, Myrtle Beach was the first city on the route to fully complete its segment of the Greenway! How cool is that?!

For North Myrtle Beach specifically, the ‘Barefoot Resort’ segment is a popular 3.3-mile stretch that takes riders by the beautiful Barefoot Landing region. Other popular nearby segments include the Grissom Parkway Trail (6.4 total miles) and Waccamaw Neck Bikeway (5.95 total miles).

Biking Trails Near North Myrtle Beach

If you’re looking to explore more of the Grand Strand, check out some of these great biking trails right outside of the North Myrtle Beach area.

The Market Common

If you’re seeking an energetic and entertaining bike trail, look no further than The Market Common. Located just 20-25 minutes south of North Myrtle Beach, The Market Common features wide-open paved bike paths and plenty to do and see!

Home to an impressive array of restaurants, shops, and attractions, the main Market Common area looks more like an outdoor shopping mall. The bustling sidewalks might be hard to maneuver in the summer, but don’t let that scare you away from taking a break to grab a snack or take in the scenery.

Outside of the main mall area, the Market Common area encompasses several public parks, including the popular Savannah’s Playground, lively ponds, and residential pockets that connect both ends of Highway 17 for a scenic and easy beach ride.

The Horry County Bike and Run Park

“The Hulk” as it’s affectionately called by locals is an ever-evolving man-made mountain bike park that opened in 2012. Located right off River Oaks Drive (convenient to Highway 31 and Carolina Forest), the bike park is true to its nickname with gnarly hills and obstacles to get your heart pumping. There are definitely easier routes, but this particular park is ideal for thrill-seekers or bikers looking for a workout.

The trails combine for a solid 7 miles of work, though it’s easy to cut paths and create a shorter route or double back and make a longer run. The Hulk is ever-changing, so you’re in for a new and exciting experience with every trip!

Please note: The Hulk is best suited for mountain biking and not casual cruises.

Huntington Beach State Park

Address: 16148 Ocean Hwy, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576

Phone: (843) 237-4440

Website: https://southcarolinaparks.com/huntington-beach

A hidden gem along the south end of the Grand Strand, Huntington Beach State Park is a serene slice of heaven. The oceanfront park is located between Murrells Inlet and Pawleys Island, which is a good 45-minute drive south from North Myrtle—but the trek is well worth the effort, we promise!

The rich wildlife alone makes this state park special. Hikers and bikers can expect to encounter everything from herons, egrets, and other marsh birds to sea turtles, fiddler crabs, flounder, and more. There are three bicycling and walking ‘trails’ within the park: Boardwalk Trail (0.1 miles), Kerrigan Nature Trail (0.3 miles), and Sandpiper Pond Nature Trail (3.0 miles). Each trail is easy and suitable for visitors of all ages and pet-friendly if you want to bring Fido along for the ride.

The park is open from 6 a.m. – 6 p.m. daily with extended hours during the summer; there is a small fee to enter—$8 for adults, $4 for youths, free for children 5 and under.

From North Myrtle Beach to Georgetown—there are endless opportunities to ‘Bike the Neck’ along the Grand Strand. Stay close to home or venture south to explore all that our rich destination has to offer!

Be sure to check out our official North Myrtle Beach blog for more vacation tips, intel on the hottest spots for locals, exclusive vacation deals, and much more!

Stay In Shape During Your Beach Vacation With North Myrtle Beach Gyms & Fitness Centers

STAY IN SHAPE DURING YOUR BEACH VACATION WITH NORTH MYRTLE BEACH GYMS & FITNESS CENTERS

Welcome to beautiful North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. The crown jewel of the Carolina coast, North Myrtle Beach is home to world-class golf courses, fabulous attractions and entertainment, and some of the best seafood along the east coast.

Just because you’re busy wining, dining, and soaking up the sun doesn’t mean you have to completely forgo a healthy lifestyle. Luckily for our health-conscious visitors, North Myrtle Beach offers a myriad of options when it comes to staying in shape during your vacation.

Whether you’re looking to break a sweat before you hit the beach or reconnect after a long day of shopping and restaurant hopping—we’ve got you covered.

Here are the top North Myrtle Beach gyms and fitness centers to help you keep personal health and wellness front and center during your getaway.

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North Myrtle Beach Aquatic and Fitness Center

Address: 1100 2nd Ave S, North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582

Phone: (843) 281-3737

Hours: 5:30 a.m. – 10 p.m., Monday – Friday; 7 a.m. – 6 p.m., Saturday; 12 p.m. – 5 p.m., Sunday

Website: https://afc.nmb.us/

The state-of-the-art Aquatic and Fitness Center is North Myrtle Beach’s premier fitness facility. Boasting over 64,000 square feet of space, this gym is your go-to spot for swimming and aquatics with a myriad of options for visitors of any age, including group water classes, swim lessons, heated Olympic lap pools, and even an indoor water slide.

From a fitness perspective, the center offers several in-person and virtual fitness classes daily, in addition to personal training and physical therapy sessions. Of course, the center also offers a full gym with plenty of equipment for any exercise regime and an on-site smoothie bar.

The Aquatic and Fitness Center offers daily drop-ins for $15 / person or weekly passes for $55 / person. Please bring a valid driver’s license or I.D. to purchase a day or week pass.

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ISI Training

Address: 3606 Highway, US-17, North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582

Phone: (843) 910-6371

Hours: 5 a.m. – 7:30 p.m., Monday – Friday; 7 a.m. – 10 a.m., Saturday; 7 a.m. – 10 a.m., Sunday

Website: https://isielitetraining.com/

ISI—”Iron Sharpens Iron”. That’s the philosophy of this unique group training meets CrossFit gym. Each class is 50-minutes of high-energy, high-intensity work—but don’t let that scare you away. Each class is led by a certified instructor that offers adjustments for both beginners and more advanced students, making each class great for members of any level. ISI is a great place to get in a fast-paced workout where you can easily burn 1,000 in under an hour! How’s that for maintaining a beach bod? If you’re wondering what to expect, the only thing we can tell you is this—expect the unexpected; each class is totally different and uses a variety of weight training and workout props, including dumbbells, kettlebells, TRX bands, medicine balls, resistance bands, and more. Come in with an open mind and a positive attitude, and the coaches will handle the rest!

First-time visitors can enjoy 10 days for free. And, as a regional chain, visitors can use their existing membership at the Myrtle Beach area locations.

Edison’s Smart Fitness

Address: Coastal North Town Center 1424 Hwy 17 N Unit 1, North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582

Phone: (843) 273-0021

Hours: 24/7, Daily

Website: https://www.edisonssmartfitness.com/

If you’re looking for a convenient and affordable gym in North Myrtle Beach, look no further than Edison’s Smart Fitness. The area’s only gym that offers access 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Edison’s is redefining the traditional gym model. In addition to flexibility, the gym offers state-of-the-art Cybex equipment for cardio workouts and strength training. This includes access to treadmills, arc trainers, stationary bikes, smith machines, jungle gyms, free weights, and much more.

If you prefer in-person classes—Edison’s offers that too! Sign up for Zumba, yoga, Body Sculpt, pilates, boot camp, or other coordinated classes, offered by certified instructors daily. Personal trainers and physical therapy sessions are also available on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Edison’s offers a variety of flexible access options, including daily and weekly passes or a 10 visit punch card.

Crossfit North Myrtle Beach

Address: 82 Cloverleaf Dr #107, Longs, SC 29568

Phone: (843) 580-6188

Hours: 6 a.m. – 7:30 p.m., Monday – Thursday; 6 a.m. – 6 p.m., Friday; 8 a.m. – 10 a.m., Saturday; Closed, Sunday

Website: http://crossfitnorthmyrtlebeach.com/

Crossfit junkies rejoice—there’s a place for you to call home right here in North Myrtle Beach. You’ll have to drive a few minutes inland, but trust us when we say the journey is well worth the effort. Like all Crossfit gyms, the North Myrtle Beach location is locally owned and operated. The staff and members welcome visitors with open arms.

The high-intensity workouts follow the national W.O.D.s that incorporate the 10 general physical skills and 9 fundamental movements that are core to the Crossfit philosophy. As with other locations, the ‘open box’ schedule means that there are no set classes. Rather, the daily workout is posted and gym visitors are welcome to come and go as they please throughout the day. Coaches and staff will be present to assist and provide guidance and encouragement as necessary.

Drop-in classes are available for $20 / class or $60 / week.

Live Oak Yoga Studio

Photo Credit: Live Oak Yoga Studio via Facebook.com

Address: 9904 N Kings Hwy, Myrtle Beach, SC 29572

Phone: (843) 340-9642

Hours:

Website: http://liveoakyogastudio.com/

Relax and reconnect with your mind, body, and spirit at Live Oak Yoga. As the only Iyengar yoga studio along the Grand Strand, Live Oak caters to yogis focused on improving pose posture and alignment while also developing sensitive self-awareness. Each thoughtfully designed class supports a balance of strength, stamina, flexibility, and mindfulness. The class schedule includes introductory and ‘yoga basics’ classes to moderate and experienced classes for regular yoga practitioners. Live Oak provides all of the props, including blocks, blankets, bolsters, straps, and yoga mats.

Drop-in classes are available for $12 / person or you can purchase a pack of 8 classes for $80. Private classes are also available for $30 per half hour.

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Check out more fun things to do in North Myrtle Beach and start planning your beach getaway!

Visiting The House of Blues In North Myrtle Beach

Conveniently located in the heart of Barefoot Landing, North Myrtle Beach’s premier destination for dining and entertainment, the Myrtle Beach House of Blues delivers all of that and so much more under one roof.

Great live entertainment, exciting annual events, decadent on-site dining—there’s something for everyone at this top-rated music venue.

Learn more about visiting the House of Blues in North Myrtle Beach and pencil this into your vacation itinerary!

The Basics

The Myrtle Beach House of Blues is located at 4640 Highway 17 South, North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582 (inside the Barefoot Landing complex).

General hours are as follows, but may change for events:

  • 4 p.m. – 9 p.m., Monday – Saturday
  • 9 a.m. – 2 p.m., Sunday

The main box office phone number is (843) 272-3000.

You can learn more on their website at http://www.houseofblues.com/myrtlebeach.

About the Venue

The sprawling Myrtle Beach House of Blues offers almost 60,000 square feet of event space, including an expansive, two-story indoor stage area with two dedicated bars, an on-site restaurant, and a large outdoor deck area with a dedicated stage and wrap-around bar for outdoor service.

Inside, the venue features a warm and cozy feeling with wood walls decorated with local art, two full bars, and a two-story viewing area. The downstairs offers stadium seats, an intimate stage floor area, and a more casual ‘standing room’ viewing area in front of the bar. The upstairs matched the same natural look and feel of the main stage with another full bar, dedicated seats, and plenty of standing room with great views of the stage. The indoor stage area can accommodate up to 2,000 guests for concerts and events.

The outdoor deck space offers over 4,000 square feet of space for lounging and enjoying the beautiful South Carolina weather. The unique layout features a covered U-shaped bar area with plenty of seating, a covered pool table and games area, and multiple other outdoor tables and fire pits. The deck also offers a dedicated stage area with live entertainment throughout the year (weather permitting).

Live Music

First and foremost, the House of Blues is a music destination. The indoor music hall can easily accommodate up to 2,000 guests, and the venue often sells out for big headliners.

Large concerts on the main stage typically take place Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. Other nights, you can find live music in the restaurant or on the deck.

The House of Blues Myrtle Beach is known for attracting a variety of music genres, and past acts have included everyone from Blue October, Colt Ford, 311, Incubus, Dirty Heads, and many high-energy cover bands.

You can easily purchase show tickets in advance through the House of Blues website or visit the ticket office to purchase directly.

See the full concert calendar here.

On-Site Dining

The House of Blues Restaurant & Bar is the perfect spot to enjoy a pre-show snack. This casual spot features hearty portions with a southern flare paired with craft cocktails and local brews—what more could you need?

Get started with an order of the BBQ Brisket Nachos, piled high with slow-smoked BBQ brisket, or the Voodoo Shrimp, which are sauteed in an Abita Amber beer reduction and served over homemade jalapeno-cheese cornbread. For the main event, indulge in a variety of flatbreads, salads, tacos. burgers, or signature HOB entrees, like cajun chicken pasta, shrimp and grits, or jambalaya. Top off your decadent dinner with an equally decadent dessert, like the HOB Bread Pudding, topped with sticky toffee sauce and bourbon brown butter.

We’d be remiss if we didn’t mention the famous Sunday Gospel Brunch, which takes place each week from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. This decadent affair offers a generous ‘all-you-can-eat’ brunch with everything you can imagine for a high-end breakfast. Freshly baked pastries, made-to-order omelets, a chicken and waffles bar, a build-your-own mac and cheese station, buttermilk biscuits and gravy, fried chicken, southwest scrambled eggs, roasted red potatoes with peppers and onions…. Need we say more? It’s not a true brunch without beverages, so be sure to check out the ‘build your own’ Bloody Mary bar (or the mimosa menu if that’s more your speed).

Of course, the Gospel Brunch also includes live gospel performances all morning long! The brunch costs $37 for adults, $18.50 for children ages 4 – 10, and free for children 3 and under. Reservations are recommended—call (843) 913-3746 to save your spot.

Special Events

In addition to the regularly scheduled concerts, the Myrtle Beach House of Blues also hosts a monthly ‘Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre’ that crime junkies will not want to miss! This interactive ‘who dunnit’ dinner show puts the crowd in the middle of a real murder mystery. Everyone is a suspect, and the person who figures out the real murderer wins a prize! These special events take place once a month and include a full three-course dinner; the menu changes seasonally. Call (843) 272-3000 for more information and reservations.

If you’re a fan of great deals on dining, stop by the House of Blues between 4 p.m. – 7 p.m. for happy hour. Enjoy $3 domestic bottles, $4 house wines, $5 house liquors, and $17 pitchers of house-made sangria. If you’re hungry, stick around for deep discounts on restaurant apps including cajun popcorn shrimp, blue cheese chips, seasonal flatbread, chicken and waffle skewers, and more—all priced under $10. Happy hour is available daily at the restaurant bar.

The House of Blues also hosts several special events throughout the year, ranging from holiday events, food and beer festivals, arts and crafts showcases, pet-friendly events, and much more.

Looking for more beach vacation inspiration? We’ve got you covered.

Check out our North Myrtle Beach ‘things to do’ directory and our official North Myrtle Beach blog for more vacation tips and tricks.